Johnston signed a minor league deal with San Diego on Wednesday but was not extended an invitation to spring training because of his October surgery to repair a torn labrum, according to the Padres' official site.

Johnston didn't retire any of the seven batters he faced Friday and was charged with seven runs, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. He gave up three hits, walked two, hit two batters and threw a wild pitch.

A lefty reliever, Johnston showed glimpses of promise when he pitched for the Bucs in 2004. The 27-year-old compiled a 1.84 ERA in his first 16 games, but ended the season with a 4.37 ERA and a 1.94 whip. In 2005, Johnston made just one appearance in the big leagues, serving up four earned runs in one inning against the Cardinals, and was sent to Triple-A the next day. Johnston has the pitches to become an accomplished reliever, but will likely struggle until he gains better command.

2005

Johnston made the jump from Double-A to the majors last year, but experienced elbow problems in June and was sent to Triple-A Nashville in July so he could develop a breaking pitch that would put less stress on his arm. A solid showing in the Arizona Fall League, where he regained velocity on his fastball and improved his breaking ball, has the Bucs brass optimistic that he is back on track. Still, he’ll need another strong spring to regain his spot in the Pirates bullpen.

2004

Johnston, who was added to the Bucs' 40-man roster in November, went 6-2 with seven saves and a 2.12 ERA in 46 relief appearances with Altoona last season. Johnston's stock rose after a strong performance in the Arizona Fall League and he could be a solid reliever for the team down the road.